In recent incidents, South Korean female creators like Darim have become targets of online harassment and threats, specifically from young male gamers who interpret innocuous actions as feminist attacks. Darim, an animator, faced a barrage of abusive messages, including threats to her life, after she posted a trailer showcasing her work on MapleStory, a leading video game in South Korea. The outrage stemmed from a single frame where a female character made a hand gesture resembling the controversial 'finger-pinching' sign, which some associated with an anti-male sentiment from a decade ago.
The backlash prompted her animation studio, Studio Ppuri, to panic and remove the promotional video. The company's CEO was reportedly concerned about losing contracts due to the hostility, revealing the power dynamic where anti-feminists exert significant influence over corporate actions. "My company and CEO were in a panic," Darim reflected, fearing for her job. Fortunately, a support organization led by male gamer Minsung Kim stepped in, lobbying for Darim’s protection and offering legal assistance.
As hostility toward feminism spikes, many women in South Korea are apprehensive about openly supporting the movement due to the rising risk of online witch hunts. These campaigns fueled by male gamers not only target women in gaming but are spreading throughout different sectors, aiming to punish those suspected of holding feminist views. Minsung noted that the tactics used by these witch hunters have grown increasingly sophisticated, resembling organized harassment.
The effects of this backlash are manifesting in alarming ways, with violence spilling over into the real world. Jigu, for instance, experienced a brutal attack by a man who labeled her as a feminist simply for her short hair. This incident reflects a broader pattern where women are not only criticized but also assaulted for their appearance or beliefs.
The cultural environment in South Korea presents significant obstacles to feminist advocacy. Despite remaining deeply entrenched, issues such as gender pay gaps and workplace discrimination face increasing challenges as the narrative shifts toward portraying feminists as threats. Polling reflects this sentiment, showing a marked decline in women identifying as feminists.
As women navigate this perilous landscape, they also argue for legal reforms to protect against discrimination based on gender beliefs. Some women report having faced direct queries about their feminist views in job interviews, an unsettling trend that undermines their rights and aspirations in professional settings.
The growing anti-feminist sentiment, often echoed by powerful figures, including government officials, highlights the challenges faced by proponents of gender equality. Many women fear the consequences of speaking out, especially when companies buckle under pressure from organized harassment campaigns. Minsung hopes that change is possible if industries begin to ignore these threats and refuse to conform to unfounded accusations.
Amid the chaos, voices continue to rise in support of feminist values, advocating for solidarity and mutual assistance among victims of harassment. Jigu’s own journey underlines this shift; her traumatic experience has catalyzed her resolve to identify as a feminist and help others who have encountered similar violence.
